Jerry Coplin Miller 72 of Wichita Kansas, formerly of Salem, passed away on Friday February the 7th, 2025 after a brief but intense battle with ALS. Jerry was born on July 28th in Lansing Michigan to Donald and Juanita Miller(Feather). Jerry and all of his siblings grew up in the south side of Chicago until around 1965. At that time our Dad decided that all of his children should be moved to a safer and more rural environment to finish growing up, so we migrated further south to the tiny town of Kinmundy which is where our parents were raised. As the years went on we all appreciated the decisions
That our folks made. Garfield Avenue has turned out to re a very rough area and most people wouldn’t dare drive on the street that we lived on, loomis st.
Jerry graduated high school and immediately went to work. College was not an option. Jerry had several jobs from pumping gas to retail sales, selling auto parts, cooking in some of the local restaurants, to factory work. He finally settled in at World Color press for over 20 years. It was a good union gob. from there he went into auto sales of exotic cars and some regular vehicles too. He was able to drive several of those exotic vehicles and he loved that. He always had a passion for cars!
Jerry was an avid fan of professional racing and he was always in vigorous pursuit of the next big race, with Cathy (Russell) always by his side. Cathy was the love of his life .
They travelled all over these United States to 100’s of concerts , musical festivals, and of course, the next big race. Cathy and Jerry did go camping often. He would take his bike with him and ride the trails whenever and wherever he could. And he did especially love Utah! Jerry and Cathy were together for 34 years. He loved her deeply and she was right by his side when he took his last breath. Together they had great times and they were able to navigate the tough times as well. I am grateful to Cathy because she loved him so much.
One more thing about Jerry, He loved photography and he was quite good … And he used real cameras ,always!
He will be missed.
Jerry leaves behind to mourn him, The love of his life Cathy (Russell) Purcell, Sister
Jackie Miller Yates (Danny),Sister Tracey Miller Quandt ( Denny), several neices, nephews, and friends. He also leaves behind daughter Stephanie Miller-Dawkins (Thaddius Dawkins). Granddaughter Isabella Miller – Timmerman, and grandson Grady Dawkins. Parents Donald Keith miller and mom Laura Juanita Miller have preceded him in death, also our oldest brother Donald Kent Miller and an infant sister Teresa Gay, grandparents Ralph and Vivienne Feather and Grandparents George and Charlene Miller.
There will not be a traditional service. His last request was to be cremated and to have his ashes returned to nature at some places that he loved.
Jerry’s wishes will be honored.
2025 03/01 – Jerry Coplin Miller
